The LSAT Writing Sample

LSAT Argumentative Writing Task Introduction

The writing section of the LSAT underwent a significant change in July 2024, when the Writing prompt that had been a staple of the exam since 1982 was replaced with the new Argumentative Writing task. While the previous Writing task was narrowly focused on logical reasoning, the new Argumentative Writing task is more writing-focused. It's designed to allow for better assessment of the test taker's use of rhetorical techniques, evidentiary strategies, and other important aspects that contribute to strong argumentative writing.

According to LSAC, the purpose of the LSAT Argumentative Writing task is to "assess a test taker's ability to construct a cogent argument based on a variety of evidentiary sources." Test takers are presented with a debatable issue, along with three to four perspectives that provide additional context. They must use this information to draft an essay in which they take a position on the issue, while addressing specific arguments and ideas presented by the various perspectives. Test takers are given 50 minutes to complete the Argumentative Writing task. The first 15 minutes are intended for prewriting analysis, and the remaining 35 minutes for writing the essay. 

The Argumentative Writing task opens eight (8) days before each LSAT administration, and test takers have a maximum of one (1) year to take it. The task is not completed at the same time as the LSAT's four multiple-choice sections. Instead, it's administered through LawHub and can be taken on-demand, available only online using secure proctoring software that must be installed on your computer. The Argumentative Writing task cannot be completed at a testing center. It must be taken at your home or another quiet, well-lit place where you won't be disturbed.

The Argumentative Writing sample is not currently scored, which means it does not contribute to the total LSAT score of 120 to 180. However, given the rise of AI-assisted technology in crafting personal statements and completing law school applications, there is a possibility it could become scored in the near future to provide schools with a more accurate picture of a candidate's writing abilities.

Those applying to law school are required to have a writing sample on file in order to view their LSAT score and have the score sent to the law schools they choose. If you have already completed the Argumentative Writing task but are taking the LSAT for a second, third, or fourth time, you are not required to write another essay, as they are good for up to five (5) years. Law schools currently use the Argumentative Writing sample as part of a holistic review process and may use it to decide between two candidates who are otherwise very similar. Therefore, it's a mistake not to take the Argumentative Writing task seriously, and test takers would do well to prepare diligently for this part of the LSAT.

LSAT Writing Sample Essay Task and Essay Prompts

Test takers are presented with an issue that can be debated, as well as three to four perspectives that provide additional context. Each perspective, presented in a few sentences, is intended to represent certain beliefs or values, ensuring they provide competing ideologies about a certain issue. After reading all the perspectives, you must draft an essay in which you take a position on the issue, while addressing specific arguments and ideas presented by the various perspectives.

Official examples of essay topics published by LSAC include the merits of outsourcing versus using in-house workers at a media company, finding the best childcare option, and deciding which aspects of a business to spend limited funds on upgrading. All test takers do not get the same Argumentative Writing prompt, but instead receive one that's randomly selected.

The LSAC Writing Sample and Score Reporting

As previously mentioned, a Writing sample is required to complete a Law School Report, and LSAC will not send incomplete reports to schools. Most law schools require prospective students to apply via LSAC's Credential Assembly Service, which must include a complete Law School Report. This means that first-time LSAT test takers cannot have any of their scores reported to institutions until they submit their Writing samples. 

In many instances, Argumentative Writing samples are processed within one (1) week of completion; however, LSAC advises that processing may take up to three (3) weeks. Law school applicants should keep this in mind for application deadlines. Test takers are allowed to later view their Writing samples immediately after completing the task.

The LSAT Writing Sample and Law School Admissions

Although the LSAT Writing sample is unscored by LSAC, law schools receive and review copies of student essays. LSAC surveys indicate that essays are important to law school admissions committees and helpful to the screening process. Many institutions explicitly list strong writing skills (as reflected in the LSAT Argumentative Writing task) among their admission requirements. 

With the introduction of the digital LSAT in 2019, essays are now typed and therefore easier for admissions officers to read, making it much more likely that Writing samples will receive close scrutiny. In sum, it is in all students' best interest to adequately prepare for the LSAT Argumentative Writing task and make every effort to write the best possible essay.

LSAT Writing Sample Test Security and Privacy for Remote Test Takers

Students are allowed to use their own computers to complete the LSAT Argumentative Writing task remotely, but LSAC has implemented a number of security features. Computers must be either a desktop or laptop running Windows or Mac OS with a webcam, microphone, a single connected monitor, and an internet connection. The proctoring software is not compatible with mobile devices, Chrome OS, or Linux. 

Proctoring technology allows proctors to see the test taker's computer screen, monitor the test taker via the computer's webcam and microphone, and observe the test taker's written work through a secure word processor. All these interactions are recorded and preserved, but the recordings are kept secure and are not shared with third parties. LSAC records Argumentative Writing assessments only in case there is a need for later investigation. The proctoring technology automatically disables all other applications on computers, and proctors remotely scan workspaces before the assessment to ensure that there are no other persons or prohibited materials present.

LSAT Writing Sample Fees

One LSAT Argumentative Writing task is included in the base exam registration fee of $248, regardless of when the essay is written. Test takers who have completed the Argumentative Writing task but wish to take it again are asked to contact the LSAC Candidate Services team for information about doing so.

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